Navigating the New SAM Preaward Registration Requirements for FY 2025
The federal procurement landscape is constantly evolving, and fiscal year 2025 is no exception. Among the latest updates to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is a critical change to the System for Award Management (SAM) preaward registration requirement. This adjustment, introduced through Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2025-01, promises to simplify the contracting process for businesses vying for federal contracts. Here’s what you need to know.
What Has Changed?
Under the new rule, offerors are required to be registered in SAM at the time of proposal submission and at the time of award. This marks a departure from the previous requirement, which mandated continuous registration in SAM throughout the entire proposal evaluation and award process.
Previous Requirement: Continuous Registration
Before FY 2025, businesses submitting proposals for federal contracts had to maintain uninterrupted SAM registration from the moment they submitted their proposal until the contract award was finalized. A lapse in registration during this period could jeopardize their eligibility, leading to disqualification or delays in the award process.
New Requirement: Flexibility in Registration
The updated rule provides more flexibility. Now, offerors must simply ensure their SAM registration is active when they submit their proposal and when the award is made. If registration lapses between these points, it will no longer disqualify the offeror as long as it is renewed before the award.
This change significantly reduces the administrative burden on businesses, particularly small businesses, which may encounter temporary lapses in registration due to unforeseen circumstances.
Why This Matters for Your Business
This modification simplifies the process of participating in federal contracting. By eliminating the requirement for continuous registration, businesses now have:
More breathing room to address minor registration lapses.
Reduced risk of disqualification for technical reasons unrelated to their proposal’s merits.
Enhanced opportunities to compete effectively for federal contracts.
For small and mid-sized businesses, this adjustment can be a game-changer. It levels the playing field, ensuring that minor administrative hiccups don’t stand in the way of significant contracting opportunities.
What Steps Should You Take?
While the new rule eases some of the pressure, it’s still crucial to manage your SAM registration proactively. Here’s how:
Monitor Your SAM Registration Status: Set up reminders to renew your registration before it expires.
Verify at Key Points: Ensure your SAM registration is active both at the time of proposal submission and at the time of award.
Leverage Expert Support: If managing SAM registration feels overwhelming, consider working with a GSA contracting consultant to stay compliant.
TriStar Business Solutions Is Here to Help
At TriStar Business Solutions, we specialize in navigating the complexities of federal contracting. Whether it’s keeping your SAM registration on track or ensuring your proposals align with FAR requirements, our team has the expertise to position your business for success.
Don’t let administrative details hold your business back. Contact us today to learn how we can support your federal contracting efforts and help you capitalize on the opportunities fiscal year 2025 has to offer.